Are desktop appraisals USPAP compliant?

Yes, desktop appraisals can be fully USPAP-compliant. USPAP governs how an appraisal is developed and reported, not whether the appraiser physically inspects the equipment.

Under USPAP's Scope of Work Rule, an appraiser may determine that a desktop approach is appropriate for the intended use, provided it yields credible results. The appraiser must clearly disclose the extent of inspection (including no in-person inspection), apply recognized valuation methods, rely on adequate and well-supported data, and follow USPAP's Ethics and Record Keeping Rules. For machinery and equipment, compliance is governed primarily by USPAP Standards 7 and 8, which cover appraisal development and reporting respectively. None of those standards require a physical site visit.

Every desktop equipment appraisal Ironclad Desktop Valuations delivers is prepared in accordance with USPAP. Our appraisers hold credentials with leading organizations such as the ASA, CAGA, and NEBB, and each report clearly discloses the scope of work, the level of inspection, and the methodology used to reach the value conclusion.

One important nuance

A USPAP-compliant desktop appraisal and an appraisal acceptable to a specific lender or program are two different things. Some lenders or SBA programs maintain their own internal policies that require on-site inspection regardless of USPAP. Before ordering a desktop report for a financing purpose, confirm the format is acceptable to your intended user. For questions about what a desktop report includes and how it is structured, see how long a desktop valuation takes or get pricing for your specific equipment type.